Mental Health & Wellness Support in Private Schools: Key Questions for Parents

Understanding Private School Costs in 2026

Private school tuition continues to rise, with the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reporting an average annual tuition of $18,400 for elementary schools and $23,200 for secondary schools in the 2025–26 academic year. These costs vary widely depending on school type, location, and program offerings. Boarding schools generally charge significantly more, with annual tuition ranging from $50,000 to $75,000, including room and board. NCES data shows that the fastest increases are occurring in independent schools with extensive extracurricular programs.

Additional costs often include registration fees, textbooks, uniforms, technology fees, and extracurricular activities. Parents should anticipate an extra $1,000–$3,000 per year for these expenses, depending on the school.

Tuition Payment Options and Policies

Most private schools offer several payment options, including annual, semester, and monthly plans. In 2026, a growing number of schools provide flexible payment software that automates billing and allows parents to manage tuition online. Early payment discounts remain common, typically ranging from 2% to 5%.

Some schools now allow income-based payment arrangements for families demonstrating financial need. Policies can vary, so parents should review the school’s financial agreement carefully and consider the total cost, including hidden fees.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial aid is a critical tool for many families. Approximately 25% of students at independent private schools receive some form of financial assistance, according to the National Association of Independent Schools. Aid packages may cover partial tuition or, in rare cases, full

Assessment and Evaluation: Student Survival Guide

Navigating private school assessments can be challenging for both students and parents. Understanding evaluation methods, academic expectations, and current trends is essential to help students succeed. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of assessment types, timing, costs, and strategies to support student performance in the 2026 academic year.

Understanding Private School Assessments

Private schools use assessments to evaluate student learning, guide instruction, and support college readiness. Assessments may include standardized tests, classroom exams, performance tasks, and formative evaluations. Unlike public schools, private schools often have more flexibility in designing evaluation methods tailored to their curriculum.

Standardized Testing

Standardized tests remain a cornerstone of private school evaluation. Common assessments include the SSAT, ISEE, and state-specific standardized tests. For parents planning admissions, understanding test schedules is critical. Most schools require testing in the fall or early winter for the upcoming academic year. Early registration is advised as testing slots fill quickly.

According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, standardized testing requirements have seen some relaxation in recent years, with many schools offering test-optional policies. However, competitive private schools may still weigh test scores heavily in admissions decisions.

Classroom and Formative Assessments

In-class assessments provide teachers with immediate feedback on student understanding. These include quizzes, essays, projects, and presentations. Formative assessments help identify learning gaps before they affect grades. For parents, encouraging consistent study habits and monitoring progress reports is essential. Schools like Phillips Exeter

Financial Aid 101: Updated Guide for 2026

Sending a child to private school continues to be a major financial commitment for many families in 2026. While tuition and fees have risen in recent years, financial aid, scholarships, vouchers and state programs play a critical role in making private education attainable for a broad range of households. This Financial Aid 101 guide updates key data, policy trends and planning strategies for parents now navigating the 2026 enrollment cycle.

Understanding Current Private School Costs

Private school tuition varies widely across the United States. According to recent national figures, annual tuition for private K-12 schools often ranges significantly based on school type and location, with many independent day schools charging well above the national median and boarding schools commanding even higher fees.

• National averages for private K–12 tuition in the 2025–26 year are approximately $15,000 overall, with elementary grades slightly lower and high school grades often higher.

• Independent and elite day schools frequently report tuition in the $30,000 to $50,000+ range, and boarding schools commonly exceed $55,000–$70,000 per year.

These costs reflect ongoing inflationary pressures, rising teacher compensation and expanded program offerings within many schools. Families need realistic expectations of total costs because tuition alone often does not include fees for textbooks, technology, transportation or extracurricular programs.

What Financial Aid Is and Why It Matters

Financial aid refers to funds provided by private schools,

Introduction

As schools and families plan for the 2025−26 academic year, extracurricular activities remain a central part of a well-rounded education. Their importance echoes beyond the classroom, shaping students’ academic success, personal development, and future opportunities. In 2026, parents and educators face new challenges related to rising costs, access barriers, and strategic planning for college admissions. This updated review explores why extracurricular activities matter now, offering fresh insights, current data, and practical advice for families navigating the landscape today.

Why Extracurricular Activities Still Matter

Extracurricular activities extend learning beyond academic subjects, offering structured opportunities for students to grow skills not always captured in grades. Participation in sports, arts, clubs, performing arts, debate, service learning, and other programs helps students develop life skills that are increasingly valued by colleges and employers.

Academic and Personal Growth

Research consistently shows that students engaged in extracurriculars often outperform their peers academically. Participation is linked with better time management, discipline, teamwork, and resilience, skills that contribute to improved classroom performance. Students involved in these programs tend to have higher GPAs and stronger engagement overall, as measured by increases in attendance and motivation.

Balanced involvement also supports mental and physical health. Programs that promote physical activity reduce stress and build healthy habits, while creative outlets such as music and art foster emotional expression and well-being.

Life Skills and Social Development

Extracurriculars cultivate interpersonal skills that are crucial in adulthood. Team sports build cooperation and communication; student